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F-1 is immigrant or non-immigrant?

The F-1 visa is a non-immigrant visa for temporary studies in the USA, linked to enrollment and attendance in a recognized course, without intent of permanent residence.

Written by

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Updated on October 18, 2025
2 min read
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When we think about the F-1 category, it is important to understand that it refers to a non-immigrant visa, that is, intended for people who plan to remain in the United States only for a temporary period for study purposes. The F-1 visa is conditioned on enrollment and attendance in a recognized academic course or program.

It does not confer on the holder the final intention to reside permanently in the country, unlike immigrant categories that allow the application for permanent resident status (green card).

Therefore, students entering with an F-1 visa must comply with all program requirements and be aware that their stay is linked to the duration and conditions of the course in which they are enrolled. It is essential to strictly follow United States immigration laws.

It is recommended that anyone wishing to request a status change or who has specific doubts about their situation seek guidance from professionals specialized in the area. This way, it is possible to avoid traps and scams, especially those marketing packages that promise guaranteed results without a thorough case analysis.

Remember: transparency and compliance with rules are the best ways to maintain a regular and safe situation during the study period in the country.

Learn more about F-1

Duration
Duration of studies
OPT (STEM)
Up to 3 years of work
CPT
Work during studies
Processing
2-8 weeks
All about F-1

About the author

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

As a journalist and lead editor at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps ensure that immigration topics are covered in a clear, trustworthy, and easy-to-understand way. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.

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F-1 is immigrant or non-immigrant?

The F-1 visa is a non-immigrant visa for temporary studies in the USA, linked to enrollment and attendance in a recognized course, without intent of permanent residence.

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